Hayward, who suffered from a dislocated left ankle and a fractured tibia on Tuesday night in Cleveland, had a successful surgery, according to Bartelstein, but will most likely spend the 2017-18 season rehabbing rather than joining his teammates.
"We expect him to make a full recovery and return to his All-Star form," Bartelstein said.Hayward's father, Gordon Scott, updated the status of his son's surgery Thursday morning via Twitter -- confirming it was a success.
In a video that was taped from his hospital bed, Hayward thanked Celtics fans for all of the support he's received since Tuesday night. The video aired prior to tip-off Tuesday night on the jumbotron and was met with a roaring applause from fans at TD Garden before the home opener against the Bucks.G’s surgery was a big success! Thanks to Dr. McKeon & entire staff at NE Baptist Hospital who were truly amazing last night! #goCeltics #PTL— Gordon Scott Hayward (@GScottHayward) October 19, 2017
"What's up, everybody? I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who has kept me in their thoughts and prayers," Hayward said to a rocking Celtics crowd. "I'm goin gto be all right. It's hurting me that I can't be there for the home opener; I want nothing more just to be with my teammates and walk onto that floors tonight. I'll be supporting you guys from here. I wish you the best of luck. Kill it tonight."Marcus Smart, who was scheduled to address the crowd for the start of the season, redirected their attention to the big screen -- where Hayward's video began.
If Hayward is eventually ruled out for the regular season, the Celtics can exercise an $8.4 million disabled player exception, which can be used to sign a free agent or via trade, if the Celtics ultimately decide to rule out Hayward for the year.
Celtics, 0-2, are off to a slow start without Hayward but will look to bounce back Friday night in Philadelphia against the 76ers.
Follow @Joe_Sway
No comments:
Post a Comment